Methods, systems, and devices relating to surgical end effectors

ABSTRACT

The embodiments disclosed herein relate to various medical device components, including components that can be incorporated into robotic and/or in vivo medical devices, and more specifically including end effectors that can be incorporated into such devices. Certain end effector embodiments include various vessel cautery devices that have rotational movement as well as cautery and cutting functions while maintaining a relatively compact structure. Other end effector embodiments include various end effector devices that have more than one end effector.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims priority as a continuation application to U.S. application Ser. No. 13/493,725, filed on Jun. 11, 2012 is now U.S. Pat. No. 9,060,781, and entitled “Methods, Systems, and Devices Relating to Surgical End Effectors,” which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/495,487, filed Jun. 10, 2011 and entitled “Vessel Sealing Device for Robotic Devices,” and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/498,919, filed Jun. 20, 2011 and entitled “Dual End Effector Components and Related Devices, Systems, and Methods,” all of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

This invention was made with government support under Grant No. W81XWH-09-2-0185, awarded by the Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center within the Department of Defense and Grant No. NNX09A071A, awarded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research. Accordingly, the United States government may have certain rights in the invention.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments disclosed herein relate to various medical device components and related components, including robotic and/or in vivo medical devices and related components. More specifically, certain embodiments include various medical device attachment and control components, often referred to as “end effectors” or “operational components.” Certain end effector embodiments disclosed herein include vessel sealing and cutting devices, and, in particular, bipolar cautery devices having integrated cutting components. Other end effector embodiments disclosed herein include various dual end effector components, wherein such components have two or more end effectors. Further embodiments relate to systems and methods for operating the above components.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Invasive surgical procedures are essential for addressing various medical conditions. When possible, minimally invasive procedures, such as laparoscopy, are preferred.

However, known minimally invasive technologies such as laparoscopy are limited in scope and complexity due in part to the need to remove and insert new surgical tools into the body cavity when changing surgical instruments due to the size of access ports. Known robotic systems such as the da Vino® Surgical System (available from Intuitive Surgical, Inc., located in Sunnyvale, Calif.) are also restricted by the access ports, the necessity for medical professionals to remove and insert new surgical tools into the abdominal cavity, as well as having the additional disadvantages of being very large, very expensive, unavailable in most hospitals, and having limited sensory and mobility capabilities.

There is a need in the art for improved surgical methods, systems, and devices.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Discussed herein are various surgical end effectors—including certain cauterizing end effectors and certain dual end effectors—for use in surgical devices, including robotic in vivo devices.

In Example 1, an in vivo vessel sealing device comprises a device body and a bipolar vessel cautery component operably coupled to the device body. The device body has a cautery component actuation motor, a cutting component actuation motor, a jaw actuation motor, and a cautery component shaft disposed within the body and operably coupled to the jaw actuation motor. The cautery component has a stationary jaw coupled to a distal end of the cautery component shaft, a mobile jaw pivotally coupled to the distal end of the cautery component shaft, and a cutting component operably coupled to the cutting component actuation motor. In addition, the cautery component is operably coupled to the cautery component actuation motor.

Example 2 relates to the sealing device according to Example 1, wherein the cautery component is rotatable about an axis parallel with the shaft.

Example 3 relates to the sealing device according to Example 1, wherein the overall length of the device body is under about 3 inches.

Example 4 relates to the sealing device of Example 1, wherein the overall length of the cautery component is under about 1.5 inches.

Example 5 relates to the sealing device of Example 1, wherein the device is an end effector coupled to an arm of an in vivo robotic device.

Example 6 relates to an in vivo robotic device comprising a device body operably coupled to at least one arm, wherein the sealing device of Example 1 is operably coupled to the at least one arm.

In Example 7, a method of cauterizing tissue of a patient with an in vivo cautery device comprises positioning an in vivo cautery device near the tissue, positioning a cautery component rotationally in relation to the tissue with a cautery component actuation motor, and opening a mobile jaw with a jaw actuation motor and positioning the cautery component such that the tissue is positioned between the mobile and stationary jaws. The method further comprises closing the mobile jaw with a jaw actuation motor, applying an electrical current to the tissue via the mobile and stationary jaws, thereby cauterizing the tissue, and urging the cutting component in a distal direction with the cutting component actuation motor, thereby cutting the cauterized tissue positioned between the mobile and stationary jaws.

In Example 8, an operational component for an in vivo surgical device comprises an actuator housing comprising at least one actuator; and an end effector housing operably coupled to the actuator housing. The end effector housing comprises a first end effector rotationally coupled to the end effector housing and a second end effector rotationally coupled to the end effector housing.

While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a vessel sealing device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 1B is a front view of a vessel sealing device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 1C is a side view of a vessel sealing device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a side view of a vessel sealing device longitudinally sectioned to show component staging, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a vessel sealing device with the exterior shown transparent to reveal inner components, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3B is a front view of a vessel sealing device with the exterior shown transparent to reveal inner components, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a side view of a vessel sealing device longitudinally sectioned to show inner components, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a vessel sealing device laterally sectioned to show inner components, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a view of a mobile jaw for a vessel sealing device in the closed position (top), partially open position (middle), and fully open position (bottom), according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a side view of a mobile jaw (top) and an outer shell (bottom) for a vessel sealing device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8A is a perspective top view of a medical device with a dual end effector component in a first orientation, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8B is a perspective side view of the device and component of FIG. 8A in a first orientation.

FIG. 9A is a perspective top view of the device and component of FIG. 8A in a second orientation.

FIG. 9B is a perspective side view of the device and component of FIG. 8A in a second orientation.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are schematic representations of the bi-directional range of motion of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are perspective isometric views of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are perspective side views of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are perspective front views of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 14 is a perspective front view of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 15 is a perspective top view of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 16 is a perspective side view of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 17 is a perspective isometric view of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 18 is a perspective front view of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 19 is a perspective front view of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 20 is a perspective isometric view of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 21 is a perspective side view of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 22 is a perspective isometric view of the component of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 23A is a perspective view of a robotic surgical device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 23B is a side view of the robotic surgical device of FIG. 23A.

FIG. 24A is a front view of a robotic surgical device, according to another embodiment.

FIG. 24B is a perspective view of the robotic surgical device of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 25A is a perspective view of a robotic surgical device positioned in a patient's peritoneal cavity, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 25B is another perspective view of the robotic surgical device of FIG. 25A.

FIG. 25C is a perspective view of the robotic surgical device of FIG. 25A.

FIG. 26A is a front perspective view of a robotic surgical device, according to a further embodiment.

FIG. 26B is a side view of the robotic surgical device of FIG. 26A being inserted into a patient's body cavity, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 26C is a side view of the robotic surgical device of FIG. 26A being inserted into a patient's body cavity, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 26D is a side view of the robotic surgical device of FIG. 26A positioned a patient's body cavity, according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The various systems and devices disclosed herein relate to devices for use in medical procedures and systems. More specifically, various embodiments relate to end effector devices that can be used in various procedural devices and systems. For example, certain embodiments relate to vessel sealing end effector devices, while other embodiments relate to dual end effector components incorporated into or used with robotic and/or in vivo medical devices. The term “dual end effector” as used herein shall mean an operational component having two or more interchangeable end effectors.

It is understood that the various embodiments of end effector devices or components disclosed herein can be incorporated into or used with any other known medical devices, systems and methods, including, but not limited to, robotic or in vivo devices as defined herein.

For example, the various embodiments disclosed herein can be incorporated into or used with any of the medical devices disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 11/932,441 (filed on Oct. 31, 2007 and entitled “Robot for Surgical Applications”), Ser. No. 11/695,944 (filed on Apr. 3, 2007 and entitled “Robot for Surgical Applications”), Ser. No. 11/947,097 (filed on Nov. 27, 2007 and entitled “Robotic Devices with Agent Delivery Components and Related Methods), Ser. No. 11/932,516 (filed on Oct. 31, 2007 and entitled “Robot for Surgical Applications”), Ser. No. 11/766,683 (filed on Jun. 21, 2007 and entitled “Magnetically Coupleable Robotic Devices and Related Methods”), Ser. No. 11/766,720 (filed on Jun. 21, 2007 and entitled “Magnetically Coupleable Surgical Robotic Devices and Related Methods”), Ser. No. 11/966,741 (filed on Dec. 28, 2007 and entitled “Methods, Systems, and Devices for Surgical Visualization and Device Manipulation”), Ser. No. 12/171,413 (filed on Jul. 11, 2008 and entitled “Methods and Systems of Actuation in Robotic Devices”), Ser. No. 12/192,663 (filed on Aug. 15, 2008 and entitled “Medical Inflation, Attachment, and Delivery Devices and Related Methods”), Ser. No. 12/192,779 (filed Aug. 15, 2008 and entitled “Modular and Cooperative Medical Devices and Related Systems”), Ser. No. 12/324,364 (filed Nov. 26, 2008 and entitled “Multifunctional Operational Component for Robotic Devices”), 61/030,588 (filed on Feb. 22, 2008 and entitled Medical Devices having a Positionable Camera), Ser. No. 12/971,917 (filed on Dec. 17, 2010 and entitled “Modular and Cooperative Medical Devices and Related Systems and Methods”), 61/506,384 (filed on Jul. 11, 2011 and entitled “Robotic Surgical Devices, Systems, and Related Methods”), 61/542,543 (filed on Oct. 3, 2011 and entitled “Robotic Surgical Devices, Systems, and Related Methods”), 61/584,947 (filed on Jan. 10, 2012 and entitled “Methods, Systems, and Devices, for Surgical Access and Insertion”), and 61/640,879 (filed on May 1, 2012 and entitled “Single Site Robotic Device and Related Systems and Methods”), all of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

In accordance with certain exemplary embodiments, any of the various embodiments disclosed herein can be incorporated into or used with a natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgical device, such as a NOTES device. Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that various combinations of features are available including the features disclosed herein together with features known in the art.

Certain device implementations disclosed in the applications listed above can be positioned within a body cavity of a patient, including certain devices that can be positioned against or substantially adjacent to an interior cavity wall, and related systems. An “in vivo device” as used herein means any device that can be positioned, operated, or controlled at least in part by a user while being positioned within a body cavity of a patient, including any device that is positioned substantially against or adjacent to a wall of a body cavity of a patient, further including any such device that is internally actuated (having no external source of motive force), and additionally including any device that may be used laparoscopically or endoscopically during a surgical procedure. As used herein, the terms “robot,” and “robotic device” shall refer to any device that can perform a task either automatically or in response to a command.

Further, the various end effector embodiments could be incorporated into various robotic medical device systems that are actuated externally, such as those available from Apollo Endosurgery, Inc., Hansen Medical, Inc., Intuitive Surgical, Inc., and other similar systems, such as any of the devices disclosed in the applications that are incorporated herein elsewhere in this application.

Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate to end effector devices for use in sealing vessels, including certain embodiments used in combination with any of the various procedural device embodiments described above. One such embodiment is a cautery device. FIGS. 1A-1C depict one embodiment of a cautery device 10 having a proximal end 30 and a distal end 40. In the cautery device 10 depicted in FIGS. 1A-1C, the device 10 includes a body 20 with a bipolar cautery component 12 at the distal end 40.

Known minimally-invasive in vivo cautery devices use a monopolar hook cautery component. In contrast, the embodiments disclosed herein provide a different device that cauterizes and cuts vessels with more precision and with reduced damage to the surrounding tissue.

As best shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the bipolar cautery component 12, also termed a “cautery end effector” herein, includes a stationary jaw component 14, a mobile jaw component 16 for clasping and cauterizing a vessel (e.g., a vein or artery), and a cutting component 18 for cutting the cauterized vessel, thus providing a three function end effector 12. The stationary jaw component 14 and mobile jaw component 16 are structured like a pair of jaws, with the stationary jaw component 14 being configured to remain stationary during the cautery process, providing a substantially rigid and stable base to support a vessel. The mobile jaw component 16 is configured such that it can move in a jaw-like fashion in relation to the stationary jaw component 14 such that the mobile jaw component 16 can ultimately make contact with the vessel positioned between the stationary jaw component 14 and the mobile jaw component 16 to clasp the vessel between the jaws 14, 16.

As best shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, according to one embodiment, the mobile jaw 16 additionally includes a pivot component 13 that that projects laterally from the proximal end of mobile jaw 16 and includes a receptacle 13 a for receiving a pin 13 b. The pivot component 13 is generally peg- or wedge-shaped to fit through an opening in outer shell 15 and facilitates movement of mobile jaw 16 as described herein below. Stationary jaw 14 includes an opening 14 a configured to align with receptacle 13 and receive pin 13 b.

Returning to FIGS. 1A-1C, each of the fixed jaw component 14 and mobile jaw component 16 is connected to a source of electrical current (not shown) such that the jaws 14, 16 function as bipolar electrodes, with one jaw functioning as a cathode and one jaw functioning as an anode when an electric current is applied. In certain implementations, the source for electrical current is a generator (not shown) that provides current separately from electricity powering the motors. In some embodiments, the generator is located outside of device 10 as a separate component. In use, the electricity flowing through the jaws 14, 16 creates heat which cauterizes a vessel clasped between the jaws 14, 16. In some embodiments, the current is applied discretely by the operator by, for example, pressing a button or flipping a switch on the generator.

As best shown in FIG. 4, the stationary jaw 14 of the bipolar cautery end effector 12 is attached to a shaft 32 that extends proximally from the stationary jaw 14 and is disposed within the body 20. The cutting component 18 is positioned between the jaws 14, 16 (as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C and 4) and extends through the shaft 32. The shaft 32 has a slot 39 cut into either or both the top 34 or bottom 36 sides of the shaft 32 and extending longitudinally along part of the length of the shaft 32 to accommodate a pin 38 (as shown in FIG. 4) that extends through the slot 39 and attaches to or extends through the cutting component 18 such that the pin is coupled to the cutting component. As such, the pin 38 and cutting component 18 can slide together along the slot 39 from a generally proximal first position to a more distal second position along with the cutting component 18. In some embodiments as best shown in FIG. 5, one or both of the stationary jaw 14 and mobile jaw 16 have a channel 26, 28 within which the cutting component 18 moves from the first position to the second position.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the cutting component 18 is substantially elongate and has a proximal end 24 and a distal end 25. The cutting component 18 includes a cutting surface 22 at the distal end 25 such that when the cutting component 18 is moved from the generally proximal first position to the more distal second position, the cauterized vessel enclosed between the jaws 14, 16 of the cautery device 10 is cut at the point of cautery.

For ease of description and understanding, the cautery device 10 as described herein has three sections 100, 200, 300, as illustrated in FIG. 2. In this embodiment, each section generally defines a plurality of components configured to control a function of the cautery device 10 within the body 20. As such, the first section 100 controls the application of the electrical current to the jaws 14, 16 as described above and rotation of the bipolar cautery end effector 12. The second section 200 controls positioning of the cutting component 18. Finally, the third section 300 controls opening and closing of the jaws 14, 16 of the bipolar cautery end effector 12. It is to be understood that while the illustrated embodiments utilize three sections, this identification and division of sections is provided solely for ease of description and understanding. It is also understood that the sections may be combined or split into more or fewer sections. For example, the first section 100 may be split into two sections separately controlling electrical current and end effector rotation.

According to some embodiments, the sections are configured and positioned such that the first section 100 is proximal to the bipolar cautery end effector 12, while the third section 300 is located closest to the proximal end 30 of the device 10, with the second section 200 being located between the first and third sections 100, 300. In some embodiments, the sections are configured and positioned such that the shape of the cautery device 10 becomes more slender toward the distal end. It is to be understood, however, that the sections may be configured or positioned in any manner suitable for proper function of the device, and may include any modifications that provide functional, aesthetic, and/or manufacturing advantages. Such advantages include, without limitation, visibility of the bipolar cautery end effector 12, size reduction, reduced materials costs, and the like.

Power for the various functions of the device 10 as described herein is provided by the motors 102, 202, 302, as best shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. Electrical current for the motors 102, 202, 302 is provided by an electrical source (not shown). According to one implementation, the electrical source is positioned externally in relation to the device 10. Alternatively, the electrical source can be positioned within the device. In some embodiments, the source of electricity for motors 102, 202, 302 also includes a control device (not shown) that includes components for controlling the motors 102, 202, 302 and/or sensing the status (e.g., position) of motors 102, 202, 302. For example, the control device could be an external control device configured to be manipulated by a user. In some embodiments, the source of electric current for motors 102, 202, 302 is separate from the control device. In other embodiments, each motor 102, 202, 302, is controlled and/or powered separately from one another. In some embodiments, the electricity for motors 102, 202, 302 is provided by the same electricity source as the current provided to jaws 14, 16.

As best shown in FIG. 5, one or more of motors 102, 202, 302 have an encoder, e.g., 102 a, 302 a, (not shown for motor 202), which is connected to the control device for receiving control instructions from the control device and providing data about the status of motors 102, 202, 302 to the control device. In some embodiments, one or more motors 102, 202, 302 also have a gear head, e.g., 102 b, 302 b, (not shown for motor 202). The gear heads 102 b, 302 b, (not shown for motor 202) can be fixed or, in some embodiments, removable and interchangeable to provide multiple gear ratios.

In accordance with one implementation, due to the electrical nature of the bipolar cautery end effector 12, the drivetrain—including the first 100, second 200, and third 300 sections of the device—is electrically isolated from the motors 102, 202, 302 through the use of non-conductive gears driven by the motors 102, 202, 302. In one embodiment, the non-conductive gears are made of nylon. Alternatively, the gears can be made of any known non-conductive material that can be used in gears. The non-conductive gears inhibit electrical current from flowing through the drive train to the jaws 14, 16 and producing electrical interference that affects communication between the motors 102, 202, 302 and control device. In some embodiments, both conductive and non-conductive gears are used. For example, in one implementation, as best shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, gears 106, 208, 306 are made of non-conductive material, while gears 104, 206, 308 are made of a conductive material. In accordance with another implementation, the effect of electrical interference can be reduced through the use of interference-reducing software and/or components in the control device or encoder 102 a, 302 a instead of, or in addition to, the use of non-conductive gears.

As best shown in FIGS. 3A and 5, the first section 100 of the cautery device 10 includes a first section motor 102 that is operatively coupled to the bipolar cautery end effector 12 to control rotation of the bipolar cautery end effector 12. In some embodiments, the first section motor 102 is directly coupled to the bipolar cautery end effector 12 or can be indirectly coupled to the bipolar cautery end effector 12 by one or more coupling means. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the first section motor 102 is coupled to the bipolar cautery end effector 12 by a first gear 104 and a second gear 106, the second gear 106 being attached to the shaft 32 of the bipolar cautery end effector 12 via metal coupler 108, as best shown in FIG. 5, such that rotational movement produced by the first section motor 102 is transferred to rotational movement of the bipolar cautery end effector 12 around axis A depicted in FIG. 3A. In some embodiments, metal coupler 108 is coupled to the bipolar cautery end effector 12 via an outer shell 15. As best shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, outer shell 15 projects distally from the metal coupler 108 and includes an opening 15 a through which pivot component 13 on mobile jaw 16 projects and translates rotational movement of coupler 108 to shaft 32.

Second gear 106 can be fixed to the metal coupler 108 using, for example, an adhesive (e.g., UV cure glue). In some embodiments, the second gear 106 and the metal coupler 108 are configured such that the shape of each component prevents the second gear 106 from moving relative to the metal coupler 108 (i.e., non-circular geometry). For example, the metal coupler 108 can be generally square-shaped to fit into a generally square-shaped hole in the second gear 106.

Returning to FIG. 4, the first section 100 additionally includes components for applying electrical current to the jaws 14, 16. In this embodiment, the first section 100 includes an electrical connection 110 for the mobile jaw 16. The electrical connection 110 is configured to allow sliding contact to a first slip ring 112, which is connected to a source of electrical current (not shown) either directly or indirectly. Slip ring 112 is generally U-shaped or C-shaped such that it maintains contact with electrical connection 110 when electrical connection 110 rotates with shaft 36. The use of slip ring 112 rather than a wire to provide electrical connection to connection 110 prevents twisting of wires about the drive train as connection 110 rotates. Mobile jaw 16 is electrically connected to connection 110 via a conductor, such as wire 13 c shown in FIG. 7 or other appropriate conductor. Electrical connection 110 is electrically isolated from stationary jaw 14 by the inclusion of a non-conductive (e.g., plastic) ring 17 between the connection 110 and the stationary jaw 14. The first section also includes a second slip ring 114 associated with the stationary jaw 14, that functions similarly to the first slip ring 112 by maintaining electrical contact with shaft 36 during rotation. The use of slip rings 112, 114 to separately provide current to jaws 16, 14, respectively, allows one jaw to function as a cathode and one jaw to function as an anode when an electric current is applied. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to include additional components or modifications to limit or focus electrical communication between jaws 14, 16.

The second section 200 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 includes a second section motor 202 that is operatively coupled to the cutting component 18 to control movement of the cutting component 18 from a first position to a second position along line of movement M. The second section motor 202 is coupled to a threaded collar 204 either directly or indirectly via a coupling means. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the coupling means for coupling the second section motor 202 to the threaded collar 204 includes a first gear 206 connecting the second section motor 202 to a second gear 208, the second gear 208 being attached to the threaded collar 204 using, for example, an adhesive (e.g., UV cure glue) or non-circular geometry, as described above. An end of the pin 38 attached to or extending through the cutting component 18 is seated in a thread 212 of the threaded collar 204 such that rotational movement produced by the second section motor 202 is translated to lateral movement of the pin 38 along M and thereby the cutting component 18. The second section is configured such that the movement of the cutting component 18 along M is a distance ranging from about 0.5 to about 1.0 inches in order to cut a vessel clasped between jaws 14, 16. Alternatively, the distance ranges from about 0.7 inches to about 1.0 inches. However, the distance can be adjusted as appropriate for the vessel size and specific configuration of the cautery device 10. In one embodiment, the pivot component 13 of mobile jaw 16 includes an opening through which the cutting component 18 passes when moved. When not being used to cut a vessel, the cutting component 18 is retracted to a position proximal to the jaws 14, 16 such that the mobile jaw 16 may be opened or closed.

The third section 300 illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 includes a third section motor 302 that is operatively coupled to mobile jaw 16 to control opening and closing of the jaws 14, 16. In some embodiments, the third section motor 302 is directly coupled to shaft 32 or can be indirectly coupled to shaft 32 by one or more coupling means. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the third section motor 302 is coupled to the shaft 32 by a first gear 308 and a second gear 306, the second gear 306 being attached to collar 310 using, for example, an adhesive (e.g., UV cure glue) or non-circular geometry. In some embodiments, the shaft 32 and collar 310 are threaded such that rotation produced by motor 302 is translated to lateral movement of the shaft 32 along M and thereby the jaws 14, 16 relative to outer shell 15. As best seen in FIG. 6, opening 15 a restricts lateral movement of pivot component 13 of mobile jaw 16 along M relative to outer shell 15 such that lateral translation of shaft 32 along M causes mobile jaw 16 to open or close by pivoting around pin 13 b via the pivot component 13 at opening 15 a.

In an alternative embodiment, stationary jaw 14 can be replaced with a second mobile jaw. In this embodiment, the second mobile jaw is pivotably attached to shaft 32 and includes a pivot component similar to pivot component 13. In this embodiment, outer shell 15 is configured to include a second opening similar to opening 15 a that restricts lateral movement of the pivot component of the second mobile jaw such that the second mobile jaw is opened and closed via translation of shaft 32 along M in a manner similar to mobile jaw 16.

The third section 300 can further include a means for detecting the thickness of a vessel clasped between the jaws 14, 16. Vessel thickness can be calculated, for example, based on the amount of lateral translation of shaft 32 along M required to close mobile jaw 16 or the position of mobile jaw 16 relative to stationary jaw 14. In some embodiments, the position of mobile jaw 16 relative to stationary jaw 14 is determined for example, by measuring electrical impedance between jaws 14, 16.

As discussed above, the cautery device embodiments disclosed herein can be utilized in any type of medical device, including those devices in which a compact or smaller size is desirable, such as devices for procedures to be performed within a patient. In order to achieve a cautery device with appropriate dimensions for such use, the dimensions of components disclosed herein can be adjusted to control the overall size of the device. For example, in one implementation, the motors 102, 202, 302 can range in size from about 8 mm to about 15 mm, while the overall length of the body is kept under about 3 inches. In some embodiments, the overall length of the cautery component is kept under about 1.5 inches. In some embodiments, the height and/or width is kept under 2 inches. Alternatively, other dimensions can be used depending on size, weight, and/or visibility requirements.

In use, the cautery device 20 is positioned next to the target vessel using a complementary system or device as described elsewhere such as an articulating robotic arm. Next, the cautery device 20 operates in the following manner to cauterize the vessel. The first section motor 102 rotates the cautery end effector 12 to position the jaws 14, 16 in an alignment with the vessel such that the jaws may enclose the vessel. The third section motor 302 actuates the mobile jaw 16 to open and the cautery end effector 12 is positioned such that the vessel is located between the jaws 14, 16. The third section motor 302 then actuates the mobile jaw 16 to close with the vessel disposed between the jaws 14, 16 and the source of electrical current (not shown) applies an electric current to the vessel via the jaws 14, 16, thereby cauterizing it. The second section motor 202 drives the cutting component 18 toward the distal end of the cautery device 20 and thus pushes the cutting surface 22 through the vessel enclosed in the jaws 14, 16, thereby cutting the vessel.

FIGS. 8A-22 depict a dual end effector operational component 410 that can be incorporated into any one of a variety of medical devices as described above. In this embodiment, the dual end effector operational component 410 is positioned on the end of a robotic arm 412. It is further understood that the robotic arm 412 can be part of any robotic medical device, such as an in vivo device. As best shown in FIGS. 8A-10B, the arm 412 has two arm segments, including a first arm segment (or “upper arm”) 412A and a second arm segment (or “forearm”) 412B. The first arm segment 412A is rotatably coupled with a torso motor housing 414 via a joint or hinge (not shown). The torso motor housing 414 houses a motor and actuation mechanism (not shown) to provide rotation of the first arm segment 412A relative to the torso motor housing 414. Further, the first arm segment 412A is rotatably coupled to the second arm segment 412B at joint 416A, while the second arm segment 412B is rotatably coupled to the dual end effector operational component 410 at joint 416B.

In one embodiment, the dual end effector operational component 410 has an actuator housing 418 and an end effector housing 420. The end effector housing 420 has two end effector elements 422, 424. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8A-10B, one end effector element is a cautery component 422 and the second end effector element is a grasper 424. Alternatively, the end effector elements on the dual end effector operational component 410 can be any known end effectors for use with medical devices, such as, for example, forceps, needle drivers, scissors, Ligasure™, or knife components, to list a few.

As best shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, in one embodiment, although both end effector elements 422, 424 remain operable, the end effector housing 420 is oriented so that the grasper 424 is accessible to the subject tissue and can perform a medical procedure.

As best shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, in another embodiment, although both end effector elements 422, 424 remain operable, the end effector housing 420 is oriented so that the cautery component 422 is accessible to the subject tissue and can perform a medical procedure.

In one embodiment, both end effector elements 422, 424 can rotate in relation to the end effector housing 420. More specifically, as best shown in FIG. 9A, the cautery component 422 is rotatable relative to the end effector housing 420 as shown by arrow AA around an axis indicated by line A. Further, the grasper 424 is rotatable relative to the end effector housing 420 as shown by arrow BB around an axis indicated by line B. According to one embodiment, the grasper 424 is also configured to move between an open configuration and a closed configuration (not shown). In an alternative embodiment (not shown), both end effector elements 422, 424 can rotate relative to the end effector housing 420 and also can be configured to move between an open configuration and a closed configuration, depending on the type of end effectors. In another alternative embodiment, the two end effectors can be operably coupled to each other such that both end effectors can be configured to move between open and closed positions.

As best shown in FIG. 10A, in one embodiment, the dual end effector operational component 410 can be rotated relative to the second arm segment 412B via the joint 416B and an actuation motor and gear system (not shown) contained within the second arm segment 412B.

As best shown in FIG. 10B, in one embodiment, the dual end effector operational component 410 and the second arm segment 412B can be rotated relative to the first arm segment 412A via the joint 416A and an actuation motor and gear system (not shown) within the first arm segment 412A.

As best shown in FIGS. 11A-12B, within the dual end effector 410, the forearm gear housing 426 contains an actuation motor 428 that is rigidly coupled to a driveshaft 430. The driveshaft 430 is rigidly coupled to a rotational motor spur gear 432. The rotational motor spur gear 432 is rotatably coupled to a rotational gear 434 that is rigidly coupled to the second arm segment (such as, for example, the second arm segment 412B as shown in FIGS. 8A-10B). Actuation of the actuation motor 428 causes rotation of the driveshaft 430 and the rotational motor spur gear 432. Rotation of the rotational motor spur gear 432 causes rotation of the dual end effector operational component 410 relative to the second arm segment (such as second arm segment 412B).

As best shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, in one embodiment, the cautery component 422 has a proximal cautery housing 436 rigidly attached to a distal cautery tip 438. In one embodiment, the wire (not shown) supplying electricity to the cautery tip 438 is enclosed in the cautery housing 436. The wire runs proximally through the dual end effector operational component 410 and is coupled at a proximal end of the wire to a power source such as a standard electrocautery generator (not shown). In another embodiment, the power source could be located within the dual end effector operational component 410. According to the implementation as shown, the grasper 424 has a proximal grasper housing 440 coupled to two grasping elements 442, 444.

As best shown in FIG. 13B, in one embodiment, the cautery housing 436 is rigidly coupled to a cautery rotational gear 446 within the end effector housing 420. Further, the grasper housing 440 is rigidly connected to the grasper rotational spur gear 448 within the end effector housing 420.

As best shown in FIG. 14, the cautery rotational gear 446 is rotatably coupled with a rotational motor spur gear 450. The rotational motor spur gear 450 is rotatably actuated by a rotational motor 452 and a rotational motor gearhead 454 coupled to the motor 452. Actuation of the rotational motor 452 and rotational motor gearhead 454 causes rotation of the rotational motor spur gear 450, and thus the cautery rotational gear 446 and the cautery housing 436. The cautery housing 436 is further coupled to two bearing elements 456, 458 proximal to the cautery rotational gear 446: a distal bearing 456 and a proximal bearing 458, both of which support the cautery housing 436 and reduce rotational friction thereof. The cautery housing 436 and proximal bearing 458 are further coupled to a cautery housing preload nut 460 that limits translation of the cautery housing 436 and provides a preload or clamping force for the two bearing elements 456, 458 to aid in reducing friction during rotation of the cautery housing 436 by holding the bearing elements 456, 458 in place during rotation.

In one embodiment, the grasper rotational spur gear 448 is rotatably coupled with the rotational motor spur gear 450. Actuation of the rotational motor 452 and rotational motor gearhead 454 causes rotation of the rotational motor spur gear 450, and thus causes rotation of the grasper rotational spur gear 448 and the grasper housing 440 simultaneously with rotation of the cautery housing 436.

In one embodiment, proximal to the grasper rotational spur gear 448, the grasper housing 440 is coupled to two beveled washer elements—a distal beveled washer element 462 and a proximal beveled washer element 464—that provide compliance for the grasper and prevent contact between moving parts during rotation of the grasper housing 440. The grasper housing 440 is further coupled to two bearing elements—a distal bearing 466 and a proximal bearing 468—that provide support for and reduce rotational friction of the grasper housing 440. The grasper housing 440 is further coupled to a distal hex preload nut 470 that limits translation of the grasper housing 440 and provides a preload or clamping force for the bearings 466, 468 to help reduce friction during rotation of the grasper housing 440 by holding the bearings 466, 468 in place during rotation.

In one embodiment, an actuation motor 472 is rigidly coupled to an actuation motor housing 474 by two actuation motor mounting bolts 476, 478. The actuation motor mounting bolts 476, 478 constrains the translation and rotation motion of the actuation motor 472 to the actuation motor housing 474.

As best shown in FIG. 15, in one embodiment, the actuation motor 472 is rigidly coupled to the actuation motor spur gear 480. Actuation of the actuation motor 472 causes rotation of the actuation motor spur gear 480 and this rotation is translated to the driveshaft housing spur gear 482.

As best shown in FIG. 16, the driveshaft housing spur gear 482 is rigidly coupled to the driveshaft housing 484 which is, in turn, rotatably coupled to the grasper driveshaft 486. Rotation of the driveshaft housing spur gear 482 via actuation of the actuation motor 472 and the actuation motor spur gear 480 therefore results in rotation of the driveshaft housing 484. Rotation of the driveshaft housing 484 in turn causes translation of the grasper driveshaft 486.

In one embodiment, rotation of the driveshaft housing 484 is aided by a proximal hex preload nut 488, several beveled washer elements 490, 492, 494 and bearing elements 496, 498. The driveshaft housing 484 is further rigidly coupled to a driveshaft housing screw 500 that constrains translation of the driveshaft housing 484 to the proximal bearing 498.

As best shown in FIG. 17, a grasper rotational pin 502 is threaded through one side of the grasper housing 440, through a hole in each of the grasping elements 442, 444 and is rigidly coupled on the opposite side of the grasper housing 440. As the grasper driveshaft 486 is translated via rotation of the driveshaft housing 484 (as best shown in FIG. 16), a connector pin 504 that connects the grasper driveshaft 486 to the grasper elements 442, 444 slides up and down in the grooves of the grasper elements 442, 444. This translation in turn causes the grasper elements 442, 444 to open and close.

As best shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the cautery component 422 can extend and retract as necessary for operation and accessibility of the desired end effector element. As best shown in FIG. 18, the cautery component 422 can be retracted through retraction of the retractable cautery shaft 506 during operation of the grasper 424 so that unwanted contact with tissue by the cautery component 422 can be avoided. As best shown in FIG. 19, during operation of the cautery component 422, the cautery component 422 can be extended beyond the proximal tip of the grasper 424 by extension of the retractable cautery shaft 506.

As best shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the cautery component 422 is extended and retracted through rotation of the rotational motor spur gear 450. The rotational motor spur gear 450 is rotatably coupled to the upper long cautery shaft 508. The upper long cautery shaft 508 is rigidly coupled to the lower long cautery shaft 510 via a set screw 512. The lower long cautery shaft 510 is supported by two bearing elements 514, 516. The lower long cautery shaft 510 is rotatably coupled to the retractable cautery shaft 506.

As best shown in FIG. 22, rotation of the lower long cautery shaft 510 (depicted in FIGS. 20 and 21) causes the retractable cautery shaft 506 to retract or extend via external threading on the retractable cautery shaft 506 and internal threading on the threaded cautery energizing ring 518. The external threading of the retractable cautery shaft 506 causes the retractable cautery shaft 506 to translate up and down when the lower long cautery shaft 510 (depicted in FIGS. 20 and 21) is rotated. Power is supplied to the cautery component 422 via a wire (not shown) connected to the energizing ring 518.

As discussed above, the various embodiments disclosed herein relate to end effector devices that can be incorporated into any of the medical devices, including robotic and/or in vivo device, disclosed in the various patents and applications incorporated by reference above. Further, as also discussed above, the various implementations can be positioned on the end of a robotic arm.

For example, any of the embodiments disclosed herein can be incorporated into the robotic device embodiments disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,679,096 (which was incorporated herein above), including the devices depicted in FIGS. 23A-24B. FIGS. 23A and 23B depict a combination or modular medical device 600 having three modular components 602, 604, 606 coupled or attached to each other. More specifically, the device 600 has two robotic arm modular components 602, 604 and one robotic camera modular component 606 disposed between the other two components 602, 604. Each of the modular arm components 602, 604 have arms 608, 610. FIGS. 24A and 24B depict a robotic device 620 according to a further embodiment in which the device 620 has two arms 622, 624, each having a first link 622A, 624A and a second link 622B, 624B. Each arm 622, 624 also includes operational components 626, 628 that can be the same or different from one another. In addition, the device 620 has a body 630 that can have lighting and/or camera components and is disposed between and coupled to both arms 622, 624 as shown.

As another example, the various embodiments disclosed herein can also be incorporated into the robotic device embodiments disclosed in U.S. Application 61/506,384 (which was incorporated herein above), including the device shown in FIGS. 25A-25C. FIG. 25C depicts a robotic device 700 having a body 702 having two components 702A, 702B, wherein the body 702 is coupled to a support component 704 having a first support leg 706A and a second support leg 706B. Body component 702A is coupled to arm 708, and body component 702B is coupled to arm 710. Each of the arms 708, 710 has a first joint 708A, 710A (each of which can also be referred to as a “shoulder joint”) that is coupled to the body components 702A, 702B. Each first joint 708A, 710A is coupled to a first link 708B, 710B that is rotatably coupled to a second link 708C, 710C. In addition, each arm 708, 710 also has an operational component 708D, 710D coupled to the second link 708C, 710C.

As best shown in FIGS. 25A and 25B, the support component 704 is configured to maintain the device 700 in the desired positioned within a cavity 712 within the patient. The support component 704, which is coupled to the body 702, is disposed through an orifice or any other kind of opening in the body cavity wall 714 such that the distal portion of the component 704 coupled to the body 702 is disposed within the body cavity 712 while the proximal portion is disposed outside the patient's body and can be attached to an external component (not shown) so as to provide stability or fixed positioning for the device 700.

In a further example, the various embodiments disclosed herein can also be incorporated into the robotic device embodiments disclosed in U.S. Application 61/640,879 (which was incorporated herein above), including the device depicted in FIGS. 26A-26D. FIG. 26A depicts a robotic device 800 having a main body 802, a left arm 804, and a right arm 806. Each of the arms 804, 806 is comprised of two segments: an upper arm (or first link) 804A, 806A, and a forearm (or second link) 804B, 806B, thereby resulting in each arm 804, 806 having a shoulder joint (or first joint) 804C, 806C and an elbow joint (or second joint) 804D, 806D. Each arm 804, 806 also has an end effector 808, 810. As shown in FIGS. 26B-26D, the device 800 can be positioned in or inserted into a cavity 820 of a patient such that, during a procedure, the arms 804, 806 are disposed entirely within the body cavity 820 while the device body 802 is positioned through an incision 824 in the wall 822 of the cavity 820.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, persons skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An end effector for an in vivo device, the end effector comprising: (a) an actuator housing comprising at least one actuator, wherein the actuator housing is operably coupleable to an arm of an in vivo robotic device, wherein the arm and the actuator housing are configured to be positioned entirely within a cavity of a patient; and (b) an end effector housing operably coupled to the actuator housing, the end effector housing comprising: (i) a first end effector rotationally coupled to the end effector housing such that the first end effector is rotatable around a first axis parallel to a longitudinal axis of the actuator housing; and (ii) a second end effector rotationally coupled to the end effector housing such that the second end effector is rotatable in around a second axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the actuator housing, wherein the first and second axes are non-coaxial.
 2. The end effector of claim 1, wherein the first end effector is a cautery component and the second end effector is a grasper.
 3. The end effector of claim 1, further comprising: (a) a first end effector rotational gear operably coupled to the first end effector; and (b) a second end effector rotational gear operably coupled to the second end effector.
 4. The end effector of claim 3, further comprising a rotational drive gear operably coupled to the first and second end effector rotational gears.
 5. The end effector of claim 4, wherein the at least one actuator comprises a first end effector actuation motor operably coupled to the rotational drive gear, wherein actuation of the first end effector actuation motor causes rotation of the first and second end effectors.
 6. The end effector of claim 1, further comprising a retractable shaft operably coupled to the first end effector.
 7. The end effector of claim 1, wherein the second end effector is a grasper.
 8. The end effector of claim 7, further comprising a grasper driveshaft operably coupled to the grasper, wherein the at least one actuator comprises a second end effector actuation motor operably coupled to the grasper driveshaft.
 9. The end effector of claim 8, wherein the grasper driveshaft is configured to move axially between a proximal position and a distal position.
 10. The end effector of claim 9, wherein the second end effector actuation motor is configured to cause the grasper driveshaft to move axially, wherein the axial movement of the second end effector driveshaft between the proximal and distal positions causes the grasper to move between closed and open positions.
 11. An end effector for an in vivo device, the end effector comprising: (a) an actuator housing comprising at least one actuator, wherein the actuator housing is operably coupleable to an arm of an in vivo robotic device, wherein the arm and the actuator housing are configured to be positioned entirely within a cavity of a patient; and (b) an end effector housing operably coupled to the actuator housing, the end effector housing comprising: (i) a cautery component end effector rotationally coupled to the end effector housing such that the cautery component end effector is rotatable around a first axis parallel to a longitudinal axis of the actuator housing; (ii) a cautery component rotational gear operably coupled to the cautery component end effector; (iii) a grasper end effector rotationally coupled to the end effector housing such that the grasper end effector is rotatable around a second axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the actuator housing; and (iv) a grasper rotational gear operably coupled to the grasper end effector, wherein the first and second axes are non-coaxial.
 12. The end effector of claim 11, further comprising a rotational drive gear operably coupled to the cautery component and grasper rotational gears.
 13. The end effector of claim 12, wherein the at least one actuator comprises a first end effector actuation motor operably coupled to the rotational drive gear, wherein actuation of the first end effector actuation motor causes rotation of the cautery component and grasper end effectors.
 14. The end effector of claim 11, further comprising a grasper driveshaft operably coupled to the grasper end effector, wherein the at least one actuator comprises a second end effector actuation motor operably coupled to the grasper driveshaft, wherein the grasper driveshaft is configured to move axially between a proximal position and a distal position.
 15. The end effector of claim 14, wherein the second end effector actuation motor is configured to cause the grasper driveshaft to move axially, wherein the axial movement of the grasper driveshaft between the proximal and distal positions causes the grasper end effector to move between closed and open positions.
 16. An end effector for an in vivo device, the end effector comprising: (a) an actuator housing comprising at least one actuator, wherein the actuator housing is operably coupleable to an arm of an in vivo robotic device, wherein the arm and the actuator housing are configured to be positioned entirely within a cavity of a patient; and (b) an end effector housing operably coupled to the actuator housing, the end effector housing comprising: (i) a first end effector comprising a retractable cautery component, the retractable cautery component operably coupled to the end effector housing such that the retractable cautery component comprises a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the first end effector is rotatable around a first axis parallel to a longitudinal axis of the actuator housing; and (ii) a second end effector operably coupled to the end effector housing, wherein the second end effector is rotatable around a second axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the actuator housing, wherein the first and second axes are non-coaxial.
 17. The end effector of claim 16, further comprising a retractable cautery shaft operably coupled to the retractable cautery component.
 18. The end effector of claim 17, further comprising a drive shaft operably coupled to the retractable cautery shaft, whereby rotation of the drive shaft causes the retractable cautery shaft to move between the retracted and extended positions.
 19. The end effector of claim 18, wherein the drive shaft is operably coupled to a rotational driven gear. 